Brussels / London / Berlin
One of Europe’s busiest aviation
networks has been hit by a major
cyberattack, causing significant disruption across several major
airports, leaving travellers stranded and airlines scrambling to cope.
On Friday night, automated check-in and boarding systems at key
airports including Brussels Airport,
London’s Heathrow, and Berlin Brandenburg Airport were knocked offline
after hackers targeted the MUSE
software platform used by multiple carriers and airport service
providers. The incident has forced airports to revert to manual check-in and baggage handling
procedures, resulting in long queues, flight cancellations, and
widespread delays.
Brussels Airport reported at least 10 cancellations and 17 delayed flights
as passenger handling systems were disabled, and airlines struggled to process travelers
without their usual digital infrastructure. Airport statements warned that
disruptions could continue for days while technicians work to restore normal
operations.
At Heathrow, Europe’s busiest hub,
passengers expressed frustration as long lines stretched across check-in halls.
“There’s no information being given,” said one traveller waiting at Terminal 4.
“We’ve been stuck here for over an hour trying to check in manually.”
Collins Aerospace whose systems
provide the affected software acknowledged a “cyber-related disruption” to
operations at select airports worldwide but did not immediately confirm who was
responsible or how the attack was carried out. Investigators from national
cybersecurity agencies and aviation authorities have been mobilised to trace
the source and prevent further breaches.
Security analysts say the attack
highlights the growing risk that cybercriminals and politically motivated
hackers pose to critical infrastructure, particularly in sectors reliant on
integrated digital systems. Ransomware and targeted network assaults have
increasingly disrupted sectors ranging from railways to hospitals, underscoring
systemic vulnerabilities in modern transport and public services.
For now, travellers are advised to check with airlines before heading to
airports, and authorities warn that full restoration of services may take days as cybersecurity teams
work to patch systems and fortify defences.
